Exhibiting at IFEX Philippines 2025

Mang Larry’s Original Suka & Lambanog is a heritage brand rooted in the town of Liliw, Laguna, Philippines, known for its artisanal coconut-based products. The company has carved a reputation for producing traditional coconut vinegar (suka) and lambanog (coconut liquor), maintaining the authenticity of Filipino fermentation and distillation processes.

Company Overview

Established in 1996 by Hilario C. Borgonia, Mang Larry’s began as a local cottage enterprise and has grown into a recognized manufacturer of native condiments and alcoholic beverages. It is registered under the Philippine FDA and is featured in regional trade and cultural exhibitions such as Likhang Laguna. The company represents the convergence of tradition, family legacy, and regional craftsmanship.

Core Products

Mang Larry’s specializes in two primary product categories made from natural coconut derivatives:

• Coconut Vinegar (Suka)

  • Plain Natural Fermented Vinegar
  • Sinamak (Spiced Vinegar)
  • Sweet and Spicy Variants

• Lambanog (Coconut Liquor)

  • Regular (Unflavored)
  • Flavored Variants (e.g., Pineapple, Mango)
  • Aged Lambanog (Higher proof, premium product)

Each product is made from pure coconut sap and processed without chemical additives, adhering to traditional fermentation and distillation techniques.

Unique Value Proposition

Mang Larry’s stands out through its commitment to traditional Filipino methods and natural ingredients. Key differentiators include:

• 100% Natural Fermentation: Vinegar undergoes slow, natural fermentation over weeks.
• Small-Batch Distillation: Lambanog is distilled in custom kilns using age-old techniques.
• Local Ingredient Sourcing: All coconuts and spices are sourced from surrounding Laguna municipalities.
• Cultural Craftsmanship: Recipes and methods are passed down generationally, ensuring product authenticity.

These practices not only ensure flavor integrity but also contribute to rural livelihood and cultural preservation.

Certifications and Compliance

The company holds a License to Operate (LTO) issued by the Philippine Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for both its vinegar and distilled spirits. It also complies with:

• Barangay Business Licensing
• Product Registration under DTI
• Local Sanitary and Food Safety Permits

These certifications allow Mang Larry’s products to be legally distributed within the Philippines and showcased in government-sponsored trade fairs.

Production and Capacity

• Fermentation Facility: Utilizes clay jars and stainless containers for controlled fermentation.
• Distillation Setup: Operates copper stills for lambanog production, maintaining alcohol quality.
• Bottling and Packaging: Manually labeled and sealed with tamper-evident packaging.
• Output Volume: Up to 500 liters/month of vinegar and approximately 200 liters/month of lambanog (peak season).

While production remains artisanal, the company has scaled moderately to meet growing demand.

Market Reach

Mang Larry’s targets a mix of domestic and regional clientele:

• Retail Outlets in Laguna and Metro Manila
• Specialty Stores and Eco-Fairs
• Souvenir and Pasalubong Centers
• Online Channels and Regional Trade Events

The company is actively exploring opportunities for small-scale exports to niche international markets focused on ethnic and artisanal liquors.

Media Coverage and Promotions

• YouTube Features: Mang Larry’s lambanog has been highlighted in food and culture vlogs for its potency and flavor.
• Trade Fair Participation: Regularly participates in DTI’s OTOP (One Town, One Product) and Likhang Laguna expositions.
• Social Media Presence: Maintains a Facebook business page to engage customers and share product information.

Major Achievements

• Over 25 years of continuous operation
• Philippine FDA-licensed for vinegar and spirits
• Featured in multiple government-supported trade events
• Product demand grew 2x after pandemic shift toward local products
• Established brand within Laguna’s heritage product network

Mang Larry’s continues to thrive as a bastion of Filipino food and drink heritage, offering pure, locally made suka and lambanog that celebrate the region’s resources and traditions.